By Kerry Lynch
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee John Mica (R-Fla.), speaking to a full general session during the National Business Aviation Association’s annual meeting and convention this morning (Oct. 30), vowed to work with the general aviation industry to combat user fees or other proposals that he believes could damage the industry. He supported the No Plane No Gain initiative, calling it the perfect message to get across in Washington. “I wish I could tell you that the war on business aviation is over,” he says. “Some people just don’t get it.”
Also speaking during the general session was Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), who stressed the importance of a healthy business aviation industry, not only for the aviation manufacturing base that is so crucial to his state, but also for the rural areas that need business aviation to connect with other communities.
Moran further expressed concerns about efforts to lengthen depreciation schedules for business aircraft – which has the backing of President Obama and a number of lawmakers. While some Washington leaders strongly back the concept thinking it will boost the economy, “it will significantly damage the fragile markets for business jets,” Moran says.
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